Residents impacted by flooding across the Western Downs now have access to important disaster recovery assistance following the March 2026 major flood event.
The Western Downs Regional Council area has been activated under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), which provides financial assistance to support recovery from natural disaster events.
The financial support, funded under the DRFA, includes activation of Personal Hardship Assistance emergency payments of $180 for individuals and up to $900 for a family of five or more for essentials like food, clothing and medicine.
Eligible flood affected eligible small businesses in the Western Downs can apply for Disaster Recovery Grants up to $25,000 and apply for loans up to $250,000 for recovery and restoring operations.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said he was delighted to see the region activated under the DRFA and encouraged impacted residents and businesses to find out if they're eligible for support.
"Our region has been severely impacted by heavy rainfall and flooding in the past week, and it's great to see the Western Downs included in the arrangements which offer several avenues of financial assistance to those who are impacted," Cr Smith said.
"Major flooding in our region has placed significant pressure on some households, primary producers, businesses and community organisations affected by direct damage to their properties.
"A vast volume of floodwater continues to make it's way through the Western Downs and we have already seen significant disruptions to business operations with key transport and supply routes cut off due to damaged or flooded roads across the region."
Not-for-profit organisations and community groups in the Western Downs can also apply for disaster loans up to $100,000 to support immediate recovery and operational needs.
Council will also seek funding under the recovery arrangements to help repair damaged roads and essential services infrastructure, which were significantly impacted during the recent flooding.
Cr Smith said while the flooding continues to subside, Council was still calculating the cost of the damage to road infrastructure across the region.
"Our crews are working as quickly as possible to ensure our roads are safe and accessible, and I encourage drivers to be patient and understanding as we move through these works," he said.
"Residents are reminded to drive to the conditions, obey any road signage in place, and report any damage via the Snap Send Solve App or by phoning 1300 COUNCIL (268 624)."
Residents impacted by this week's flooding can check their eligibility and see what support is available to them at www.disaster.qld.gov.au or by calling the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
Find out if your organisation is eligible for the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements via the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) website www.qrida.qld.gov.au or by calling 1800 623 496.
